Vandals of Public Infrastructure in FCT to Face Charges of Economic Sabotage
1. Those caught vandalizing public infrastructure in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will now face charges of economic sabotage in court.
2. This decision emerged from the first security meeting of 2025, held on Monday, January 13, and led by the FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, in Abuja.
3. Speaking to the press after the meeting, the FCT Police Commissioner, Olatunji Disu, underscored the grave consequences for those involved in damaging public assets, stating that, “Anyone arrested for vandalizing public infrastructure will be charged, and the charges will include economic sabotage.”
4. CP Disu emphasized the dangerous impact of such acts, warning that they pose serious risks to the safety of FCT residents. He pointed out that removing manholes, for instance, creates hazardous driving conditions that can lead to fatal accidents.
5. He further criticized the leniency of past punishments for vandals, such as community service or small fines, which he described as ineffective and contributing to a cycle of repeat offenders. He also suggested that charges could extend to attempted murder or even murder, in addition to economic sabotage.
6. Disu stated, “We have observed that after bringing these criminals to court, the penalties are so insignificant that we continue to see the same offenders. They often receive light punishments like community service, a few strokes of the cane, or minimal fines of 2,000 or 5,000 Naira.”
7. He added, “The acts of these vandals are so dangerous that they endanger lives. Removing manholes, especially at night, can lead to deadly accidents. As such, these individuals will face charges of economic sabotage, and in some cases, attempted murder or murder.”
8. The Police Commissioner also revealed that the authorities have decided to temporarily halt activities at all panteka markets (which deal in scrap metal and second-hand goods) in the FCT for two weeks to allow security forces to profile the vendors.
9. Reiterating the city’s ban on scavenger activities, CP Disu stressed that scavenging is only permitted at designated dump sites, and all security agencies have been instructed to enforce this ban strictly.
10. He also called on residents to take an active role in safeguarding public infrastructure, urging them to report any suspicious behavior to the authorities. “If you see something, say something,” he urged, emphasizing that everyone has a part to play in ensuring the safety of the community.
11. On the issue of ‘one-chance’ robberies, CP Disu shared that many of the criminals involved are from other states but operate in the FCT. Given the seriousness of these crimes, they are treated as armed robbery or kidnapping offenses.
12. He also highlighted the progress being made in tackling ‘one-chance’ crime, noting the successful recovery of 25 vehicles that were used by these criminal groups.
